BOBCATS GOT TALENT!
FIRST AMENDMENT SITE LAUNCHING BY END OF NOVEMBER
SEE PAGE 4
SEE PAGE 2 SEE PAGE 7 VOLLEYBALL CLINCHES TOP CONFERENCE SPOT WITH REDEMPTION WIN
www.UniversityStar.com
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 12, 2019 VOLUME 109 ISSUE 14
DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911
COMPLIANCE
FOOTBALL
Department of Education to conduct campus crime program review
TEXAS STATE OFFENSE COMES ALIVE IN SHOOTOUT WIN
By Jakob Rodriguez Editor in Chief
for the second time with a 17-yard touchdown pass to take the lead at 27-21. Following a Jaguar touchdown and a 60-yard kickoff return from DeJordan Mask, the Bobcats were back into scoring position. After failing to convert, Rowland recovered from a missed attempt and kicked his third field goal of the game at 31 yards to retake the lead at 30-28. The Bobcat defense came up big for the team near the end of the game, stopping South Alabama on third down. In a risky move, the Jaguars went for it on 4th down from their own 33-yard line, but the Bobcats tackled for no gain. After failing to gain a first down to seal the game, the Bobcats were forced to punt. To the horror of Bobcat fans, the snap was fumbled and the Jaguars recovered the ball at the Texas State 40-yard line. The Jaguars then moved up to Texas State'a 11-yard line before the Bobcats stopped them again. With 1:08 left in the game, South Alabama went for the 28-yard field goal and the win. Lucky for Texas State fans but unlucky for the USA kicker, the
The Department of Education notified Texas State that it would be conducting an off-site campus crime program review to evaluate the university’s compliance with the Clery Act. The notification from the DOE (Nov. 6) was followed by an announcement from University President Denise M. Trauth the next day addressing the review to the current students, faculty and staff. According to Trauth’s email, the university has been preparing for this eventual step in order to address the deficiencies an instances of underreporting. “We have been preparing for this possible next step in the process and are fully cooperating with the Department’s program review team to continue to improve campus safety and Clery compliance,” Trauth’s email stated. Texas State tallied 57 rapes from 20162018 for its latest report, which was released at 5:35 p.m. Sept. 30, 2019. Additionally, The University Star was able to uncover 24 sexual assault crimes from 2014-2016. The crimes were Clery reportable and uncategorized into four sexual offense categories: rape, fondling, incest and statutory rape. Assistant Vice President, University Advancement Sandy Pantlik said the review will continue the university's partnership with the DOE. "We had already been working with the Department of Education since May of 2019 to address deficiencies in our Annual Security Report and so this is a continuation of that relationship with the Department of Education," Pantlik said. Texas State administration members reported to The University Star that they began receiving technical assistance from the DOE on May 14, 2019. The technical assistance was reported to address formatting issues within the report itself. Vice President of Finance and Support Services Eric Algoe said
SEE FOOTBALL PAGE 7
SEE COMPLIANCE PAGE 3
Senior running back Ledarrius Harris celebrates Texas State's homecoming victory vs. South Alabama Nov. 9 at Bobcat Stadium. PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY
By Colton McWilliams Sports Reporter Texas State football came back to the Wack with a 30-28 victory over South Alabama at Homecoming on Saturday. Behind 373 yards passing and three touchdowns from sophomore quarterback Tyler Vitt, the Bobcats defeated the Jaguars to take their second conference win and continue their long-shot journey to bowl qualification. A "good" performance was an understatement for Vitt, who won his first game as starting quarterback while racking up a career-high in passing yards and tying his career-best with three touchdown passes. Head Coach Jake Spavital said he was pleased with Vitt's work ethic and determination that revealed itself on Saturday. “He’s a fighter,” Spavital said. “He’s a blue-collar kid that shows up and he doesn’t let much phase him.” After stopping the Jaguars on their first drive, Senior kicker Joshua Rowland put the first points on the board for the second game in a row,
kicking a 20-yard field goal after being stopped short of a touchdown. The Jaguars quickly responded with their first points of the game to take a 7-3 lead. Undeterred by the touchdown, Texas State responded with another long drive into South Alabama territory. After another third down standstill, Rowland came back with his second field goal from 41 yards out to cut the lead 7-6. The goal was Rowland's second 40+ yard field goal of the season. Later in the second quarter, the 'Cats put together their longest scoring drive of the season, going 92 yards before being capped off by Vitt's 40-yard touchdown pass to Javen Banks to retake the lead at 13-7. The game continued to be a backand-forth effort with the Jags at 14-13 before halftime. The shootout carried through the third quarter, starting off with Vitt's 38-yard touchdown pass to Trevis Graham Jr. to put the score at 20-14. The Jags bounced back with an 8-yard touchdown pass to to retake the slim lead at 21-20. Vitt soon connected with Graham
Attendees of the San Marcos Veterans Day Parade hold and display their signs as veterans, the San Marcos High School Band and others pass by Nov. 9 in downtown San Marcos. PHOTO BY JADEN EDISON
Randolph Goodman hugs one of his longtime friends after being thanked for his service at the San Marcos Veterans Day Parade Nov. 9 in front of the Hays County Courthouse. PHOTO BY HALEY BRAND
Twin brothers Nolan (right) and Gavin Brado, 5, play with American flags outside of a vehicle sunroof Nov. 9 at the Veterans Day Parade in downtown San Marcos. PHOTO BY JADEN EDISON Mary Ann Vasquez holds a sign in support of veterans attending the San Marcos Veterans Day Parade Nov. 9 in downtown San Marcos. PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY
Hays County Constable David Peterson walks in the parade Nov. 9 at the San Marcos Veterans Day Parade. PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY
The University Star
2 | Tuesday, November 12, 2019
NEWS
Sonia Garcia News Editor starnews@txstate.edu
FREE SPEECH
First Amendment site launching by end of November
Trinity Building 203 Pleasant St. San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 245 - 3487
Editorial Staff Editor-in-Chief: Jakob Rodriguez stareditor@txstate.edu
By Chelsea Mumy News Reporter
Managing Editor: Bayley Bogus starmanagingeditor@txstate.edu News Editor: Sonia Garcia starnews@txstate.edu Life & Arts Editor: Laura Figi starlifeandarts@txstate.edu Opinions Editor: Jordan Drake staropinion@txstate.edu Sports Editor: Claire Partain starsports@txstate.edu Design Editor: Molly Gonzales stardesign@txstate.edu Multimedia Editor: Jaden Edison starmultimedia@txstate.edu Engagement Editor: Isabella Lopes starsengagement@txstate.edu
PR Team Bianca Landry PR Director
Matthew Hawkins PR Specialist
Brianna Benitez PR Specialist
Lynsey Lamoureaux PR Specialist
Jean Floyd PR Specialist
Jacqueline Moreno PR Specialist
Full-Time Staff Director: Laura Krantz, laurakrantz@txstate.edu
The Division of Student Affairs is launching a new constitution-based website this month focusing on FAQs surrounding freedom of speech and the First Amendment. According to Vice President of Student Affairs Joanne Smith, the website is meant to educate and inform students on their rights and what free speech entails. "Sometimes there can be confusion about what the First Amendment protects and what it does not protect; (the website is) an education tool," Smith said. The site is currently in the works and expected to launch by Thanksgiving break, but no day has been set, according to Smith. The target audience is primarily students but will be public and accessible to anyone. Smith said she believes the website is beneficial to anyone who visits—particularly organizations and groups affiliated with the school. "Part of this is making sure people understand what the guidelines (for free speech and student protest) are as a university through Texas law," Smith said. "Our goal as a university is to educate people about what is free speech and what is not free speech." According to Smith, the First Amendment site will outline and define terms like "hate speech." President of College Democrats at Texas State Trevor Newman thinks the implementation of a free speech and First Amendment information site will educate people on their rights and keep improving discourse and relationships among student activists and political groups on campus. "I think this site will help with political tension on campus if people go to that site and understand what people are (protesting)," Newman said.
Students hold up signs during an anti-gun violence protest March 22, 2018, near the Fighting Stallions at Texas State. PHOTO BY GEOFF SLOAN
Newman believes the new site will aid the organization's members in understanding what they do as activists. Newman sees the website as having the potential to increase both positive and negative interactions when students are informed about how to use their First Amendment right on campus. "I think when you give students an open door to the First Amendment, and say, 'hey you can say whatever you want to on a college campus,' it gives the possibility for positive and negative communication," Newman said. Cameron Davis, accounting freshman, said he believes it is important for the university to introduce a website
about free speech because of the factual and constitutional answers it can provide students. Davis said he sees the website being used for double-checking whether or not organizations are in line with what is featured on the site. "This site would create more discussion among students and as long as the information is constitutional, I see this as being an effective improvement to the school," Davis said. While the site is not yet finished, it should be finalized near the end of November 2019 and accessible through the Student Affairs webpage at https:// www.vpsa.txstate.edu/.
Student Publications Coordinator: Mayra Mejia, mm1894@txstate.edu
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Texas State implements bias reporting system By Samantha Guerrero News Reporter Texas State administration is launching a bias response protocol in response to prejudiced or offensive behavior that may exist on campus, including racist, sexist and homophobic remarks. The program will attempt to create a more cohesive atmosphere on campus and support the campus climate. The response protocol, Bring It Up Bobcats, was created to grant students, faculty and staff an opportunity to use their voices if faced with bias. According to the Office of Equity and Inclusion website, bias is defined as conduct, behavior, speech or actions acted upon with prejudice or judgment. Associate Chief Diversity Officer Stella Silva, who initiated the protocol, said bias consists of opinions coming from a place of non-acceptance that attacks someone's character or identity. "Everyone has a bias based on the way they were raised or their value system," Silva said. "The reporting system is mainly made for the reporter; it's for us to sit with the reporter and ask them if they are okay." Bring It Up Bobcats is similar to other bias reporting systems on various campuses nationwide, like Texas A&M University and The University of Texas at Austin. However, Texas State administration labeled its system a bias protection protocol due to the fact the system is not punitive and no disciplinary action is involved unless the team deems it fit.
If someone were to report, that person would not get in trouble unless it is a situation regarding hate crimes. The incident would be transferred to either the University Police Department or the Dean of Students. "We are not trying to call people out," Silva said. "We just want to have an opportunity for discussion." The members of the bias protocol team include Associate Dean of Students Vincent Morton, Associate Professor of Finance and Economics Jeff Todd and UPD Lieutenant James Dixon. The team reviews each report that comes in through the Bring It Up Bobcats website. "There is nothing we can do about other people's actions," Silva said. "We do not see it fit to take disciplinary actions." If the protocol team deems the situation out of their control, the individuals will refer the report to Student Conduct or UPD, then proceed with the student justice system. The incident would be processed as a hate crime if it goes to student conduct. Otherwise, no actions will be taken against the person who was reported. "We have had some instances these last few years that have caused students to be upset," Todd said. "Now, we have a mechanism where anyone can file a report and be heard." Four students were arrested on campus May 1 following a protest against a white supremacy group's supposed visit to campus. The bias response protocol has been implemented as a response to tensions on campus.
A portrait of Associate Chief Diversity Officer Dr.Stella Silva, PHOTO COURTESY OF STELLA SILVA
According to Silva, Bring It Up Bobcats has been in the works since fall 2018. "We were waiting because we wanted to see how other institutions were implementing their reporting systems," Silva said. "Hundreds of institutions across the nation had a bias reporting system before we did." Kristen Keller, chemistry junior, feels the program will be beneficial for students because it allows the reporter an opportunity to air out grievances. "I think for the program to be truly successful, it should be advertised more and explained better," Keller said. For more information about Bring It Up Bobcats, visit the Office of Equity and Inclusion website at https://www.txstate. edu/oei/Bias-Response-Protocol.html.
The University Star
Tuesday, November 12, 2019 | 3
NEWS
Sonia Garcia News Editor starnews@txstate.edu
ADMINISTRATION
Accusatory flyer published by student organization retracted By Chase Rogers Assistant News Editor The College Democrats at Texas State retracted a Twitter post containing inaccurate accusations against an Office of Diversity and Inclusion official. In a response from the official Texas State Twitter account, Vice President of University Administration Lisa Lloyd said the claims in the circulated flyer were "incorrect and misleading." College Democrats reacted by releasing a press release correcting the inaccuracies and reaffirm their opposition to Silva's new appointment as interim chief diversity officer and director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. The flyer cites the case Lopez v. Texas State University, where former university employee Sonya Lopez sued Texas State after her termination. Lopez alleged she had been racially discriminated against and had suffered retaliatory action by her superior, Silva, for filing a pay grievance. Lopez cites these actions violated the Texas Commission of Human Rights and Texas Labor Code § 21.051. Lopez's case was decided April 20, 2012, with the Third Court of Appeals in Austin deciding she had, "failed to exhaust her administrative remedies as to these claims." Silva was dropped from the case six months after. The post containing the flyer, now removed from the College Democrats Twitter page, is coupled with commentary from the organization, stating, "Let(s) add this to the long list of terrible decisions by TXST Administration." After the aforementioned accusations, the question is posed, "HOW ARE STUDENTS SUPPOSED TO BE ABLE TO TRUST SOMEONE WHO HAS A HISTORY OF DISCRIMINATING AGAINST OTHERS?" College Democrats Vice President Alexa Browning said despite having heard about the case from a Texas State staff member—who has requested not to be identified—College Democrats did not originally create the flyer. "We were told about this issue by a staff member a couple of weeks in advance to the flyer being passed around to students at the Stallions (statue,) so we already knew we were going to stand behind this issue," Browning said. "But we didn't have anything to do with the original drafting of the flyer." After the information was posted by College Democrats and spread by students, Lloyd sought legal counsel to review the case for the accusations mentioned, finding the statement she "was found guilty" to be false. Lloyd felt it was important to correct the claims on the flyer. "When this came to my attention, I really looked into it myself and talked with our attorneys even before I talked to Dr. Silva," Lloyd said. "That's when we found what was being posted was inaccurate and I thought it was important to address the inaccuracies of it." Lloyd's statement on Twitter (Oct. 24) clarified the findings of the case, stating, "There has never been a finding by the University, courts, or any investigating body that Silva 'discriminated against a former TXST employee based on their race & retaliated against them.' The University fully supports Silva & the fair equitable treatment of all employees." Silva said she hopes this situation will be used as an opportunity for students to learn the impacts of social media; thorough fact-checking is needed before making accusatory statements. "Gone are the days in which you can
A screenshot of a tweet sent out Oct. 24 by the College Democrats condemning Dr. Stella Silva. PHOTO SOURCE TWITTER
"GONE ARE THE DAYS IN WHICH YOU CAN POST WRONG OR MISLEADING INFORMATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA, OR BASICALLY ANYWHERE, AND THINK YOUR FACTFINDERS ARE NOT GOING TO QUESTION IT. WE'RE AT AN INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION AND SHOULD USE BEST PRACTICES IN DISTRIBUTING INFORMATION, SUCH AS CHECKING SOURCES AND DETERMINING THE FACTS, OR IT TURNS INTO A SITUATION SUCH AS THIS, WHICH IS DEFAMATION OF CHARACTER AND SLANDER. " -STELLA SILVA, ASSOCIATE CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER post wrong or misleading information on social media, or basically anywhere, and think your factfinders are not going to question it," Silva said. "We're at an institute of education and should use best practices in distributing information, such as checking sources
and determining the facts, or it turns into a situation such as this, which is defamation of character and slander. What you put out there on social media impacts other people, particularly if it is wrong, misleading or information impacting someone's character—it's not
right." Browning said it is not unusual for the university to respond to the organization's tweets. However, she hopes in doing so, administrators will recognize and better address issues brought up by the student body. College Democrats released a statement Oct. 25 on Twitter to correct its previous stance on the issue and inaccuracies on the flyer, stating, "The information in the flyer we shared is partially incorrect. Neither TXST nor Silva were found guilty of discrimination, retaliation, or nepotism." However, the organization holds its stance of opposition to Silva's appointment because, although she was not found guilty, she was not acquitted of the charges. Trevor Newman, president of College Democrats, said the main point of the case was not thoroughly discussed or deliberated, citing the case was closed with no accusations decided upon. "Because the case was dropped, there was no clear charge against either party," Newman said. "The case was about how Silva used her power and authority inappropriately against Lopez. In the case, that distinction isn't made. It was arguing Lopez didn't go through all of the proper resources—it didn't really touch on what was actually happening." Because the case was dropped, Browning said the College Democrats are seeking clarification and corrective action from the university by publicly publishing the accusations. "I think what we are looking for by calling the university out is for them to admit it either happened or didn't happen," Browning said. "We want to know what steps are going to get taken in the future." The point of contention with Silva's appointment for College Democrats is the particular position she will fill as chief diversity officer and director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion. Browning said the fact there were allegations of discrimination at all, paired with the inclusivity of the position, is reason enough to worry. "We wouldn't be as concerned with this issue if she wasn't specifically the director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion," Browning said. "This is an office that is important for the Texas State community. Diversity and inclusion are issues that, as a campus, we have seen a lot of interest in moving forward. The accusations brought up against Silva— the fact they even exist—is worrying because we want the office to be the best it can be." Newman said he believes the posting and then retraction of the flyer have not damaged the organization's credibility. He suggests students interested in the issue review the case file to formulate their own opinion. "Regarding our credibility, I don't think we lost any," Newman said. "I think students who are invested in this situation should reach out to a specific organization or jump into the court case themselves." College Democrats hope to speak with Silva concerning these issues via Student Government forum. Silva said she is ready to have the conversation and sees it as an opportunity to speak with new students. "The silver lining is this is a situation where I'm able to meet great students and have hard conversations with them I might not have otherwise met," Silva said. "If they want to come and talk to me, I am more than willing to have that conversation with anyone."
FROM FRONT COMPLIANCE administrators became aware of the discrepancies in the data, but the report itself was not up to standards set by the DOE. However, according to Pantlik, it has yet to be determined by the DOE what exactly will need to be provided by Texas State to complete the review. "We're not aware specifically yet, we will have meetings with the Department
of Education and they will outline the specific information that they are looking and what they are asking us to provide to them," Pantlik said. Initial meetings between the DOE and Texas State are being scheduled now. Materials submitted for review to the DOE will be sent electronically due to the off-site nature of the review itself. Pantlik said DOE officials will be
working directly with University Police Chief Laurie Espinoza Clouse; Vice President for University Administration Lisa Lloyd and Algoe. "Right now we're just fully cooperating with their review team to work toward improving campus safety and Clery compliance," Pantlik said. In an email response to The University Star, Lloyd said that FAQs with a
comprehensive timeline, are being developed and will be released once complete. University Police Chief Laurie Espinoza Clouse and Vice President of Finance and Support Services Eric Algoe were contacted for comment on this story and offered no additional comments.
The University Star
4 | Tuesday,November 12, 2019
LIFE & ARTS
Laura Figi Life & Arts Editor starlifeandarts@txstate.edu
ART
Local artist awakes 'Intuition' at The Gallery of Common Experience By Brianna Benitez Assistant Life and Arts Editor A carton of milk, flowers and naked bodies layer together to unfold the creativity of The University of Texas at Austin alumna, Maddie Mondshine, in the new exhibit "Intuition." Mondshine graduated from UT with a BFA in studio art and a bridging discipline in media, cultural and identity studies in May 2019. The "Intuition" exhibit showcases a collection of dynamic, curious and personal pieces Mondshine created between fall 2018 to spring 2019. She said the pieces are a body of work she designed during her senior year at UT. The exhibit is a part of the Gallery of Common Experience located in the Honors College Coffee Forum, and will be on display until Dec. 19. The purpose of the gallery is to showcase artwork corresponding with the 2019 Common Experience theme of "Truth." Shannon Faseler, art and design lecturer, is the gallery curator. Faseler is responsible for discovering artists willing to showcase their work for the exhibit. Faseler said the location of the gallery is a great spot for students to interact with art in an informal setting. "It puts art in the space of the students and encourages them to contemplate things in a different way," Faseler said. Faseler said the artwork in the "Intuition" exhibit reveals the emotional and intuitive responses Mondshine evokes in her personal life. "She's not second-guessing or overthinking herself," Faseler said. "She's working intuitively and responding to things in her own way." Mondshine said she had Faseler as a lecturer for three studio design classes during her time at UT. She and Faseler formed a great relationship and continued to remain in contact when Faseler transferred to Texas State fall 2019. Through their connection, Faseler offered Mondshine the opportunity to showcase her work at the 2019 Gallery of Common Experience exhibit. The exhibit features 10 pieces of artwork. Five of the pieces are oil on canvas, three are graphite on paper and two are pastel with graphite on paper.
"Spilled Milk" by Maddie Mondshine on display at the "Intuition" exhibit in the Gallery of Common Experience. PHOTO BY BRIANNA BENITEZ
"It's not a coincidence" by Maddie Mondshine on display at the "Intuition" exhibit in the Gallery of Common Experience. PHOTO BY BRIANNA BENITEZ
"Could I be mistaken" by Maddie Mondshine on display at the "Intuition" exhibit in the Gallery of Common Experience. PHOTO BY BRIANNA BENITEZ
Each piece showcases a series of layered images designed to invoke emotion or personal stories. The images used in Mondshine's work come from a multitude of sources including, but not limited to, songs, memories and personal photographs. Mondshine said although the layered elements may seem unrelated, she believes they belong together due to their visual compatibility and her own innate interpretation of each. During the design process, Mondshine said she has yet to figure out where she pulls her inspiration from. She said it is difficult to explain where the root of her ideas stem from, as it is usually not
until a piece is completed when she can identify how and why she was influenced to create it. When she first began creating art, Mondshine said she had a difficult time discovering her style. She said after opening herself up to experimenting with her work, she was able to evolve into her own unique style. It was not until this year Mondshine said she began relying on her gut-feeling to create images the way she does. She said the exhibit relates to the Common Experience theme because it showcases her intuition: her highest form of truth. "Intuition is something you know
with your gut or your heart as opposed to something you can intellectualize or articulate perfectly," Mondshine said. "It’s an internal knowing before you even have the time to think about it with your brain." Mondshine said the goal of "Intuition" is to encourage viewers to reflect on the messages within her work and discover how the art ties into their personal lives. She wants onlookers to gaze at her pieces and truly think about what they mean and why they are arranged together. "If two people were looking at the same piece, they might have different ideas about it," Mondshine said. "I think someone’s interpretation has more to say about themselves than it does about me. " Samantha Drodosch, UT social work senior, is a close friend of Mondshine. Drodosch said Mondshine is a curious and authentic artist. Over the years, Drodosch said she has witnessed Mondshine develop her own unique, artistic style. She said Mondshine's work focuses on distorting and desexualizing the female body in an effort to challenge norms associated with the objectification of women. In several of Mondshine's pieces, the female body is seen layered or blended into random objects. The focal point of the pieces is not the body, but how the surrounding images fuse into its form. Drodosch said after serving as a model for several of Mondshine's pieces, she has developed a personal connection to Mondshine's work. Being able to play a role in the desexualization of women has been healing for Drodosch. Mondshine is open to different styles and perspectives around her and spends time studying other artists. During the time Mondshine was exploring her own style, Drodosch said the artist focused on opening herself up to the uncertainty of art. "It's been very beautiful to watch her explore what art means to her," Drososch said. "The more she questioned and accepted that uncertainty, the more she has opened up." For more information on Mondshine visit madisonmondshine.com or follow her on Instagram @maddie_mondshine.
COMMUNITY
Bobcats Got Talent! Texas State students showcase abilities at annual talent show By Abby Gutierrez Life and Arts Reporter TXST’s Got Talent event embodied the homecoming week spirit by showcasing students of diverse talents with performances full of magic tricks, drag queen sass, stand-up comedy and original song lyrics. The Texas State annual talent show is one of the university’s homecoming traditions. The event is hosted every year to generate homecoming spirit and pride while showcasing some of Texas State’s talented individuals. The event was held 7-9 p.m., Nov. 6, in Evans Auditorium. Comedian Tyler Bo traveled from Portland, Oregon, to host for the night. He kept the audience laughing throughout the show as he introduced the performances, which consisted of 13 acts. The judges determined the winners for solo, group music, movement and variety categories. The audience was able to vote via the Twitter account @sacatxst for their favorite performance that would receive the People’s Choice Award. The Filipino Student Association won the People’s Choice Award with its hip hop dance routine. External President of FSA Victor Hernandez said the organization performed in the show in 2018, and he believes it is will be a good opportunity to showcase members' talent and love for dance. “I feel humbled they allowed us to come back,” Hernandez said. “To continue coming back would be a good tradition for our organization and a good way to put our name out there.” Fabien Moreno, American literature graduate student, performed a series
of magic tricks to entertain the audience. Moreno has been performing professionally for seven years and jumped at the opportunity to test out new material. “This is how I pay my way through school,” Moreno said. “Plus, it looked like fun. I write papers during the week and more often than not, I’m on the road from Thursday to the next Monday.” Moreno said it was fun to see the variety of talent found among the student body and enjoyed his time at the show. “It was great because of the fact these are all students on campus,” Moreno said. “It’s so good to see such highquality talent at Texas State. It felt like a full review show.” Lauren Mazoch, general studies freshman, won first place in the solo music category. Mazoch sang an original song and said she has been itching to share her music. “It’s even more special when you write music because you know the ins and outs and everything about it,” Mazoch said. “I want people to hear my music and hopefully like it.” Mazoch said the TXST’s Got Talent crowd was the biggest audience she has ever performed in front of and she could not have been more excited to be a part of the homecoming week tradition. “This is all so new for me, and even to just be a part of Texas State Homecoming is so crazy to hear, super cool and exciting,” Mazoch said. Winning first place in the group music category was Echoes A Capella, a singing group aiming to share their love for music, create laughs and spread positivity. Isabella Rodriguez, nursing freshman, said it was her first year
Jessica Teran vocalizes her original song dealing with love and self-worth Nov. 6 at TXST's Got Talent in Evans Auditorium. PHOTO BY REBECCA HARRELL
performing with the group and enjoyed the experience. “We do it as a tradition every year to get our name out and to inform students of our organization,” Rodriguez said. “I already feel like a family with these people and everyone is just really comforting. It was super fun.” Bart Peluso, digital media innovation senior, performed his stand-up comedy routine. He has done several solo shows in Austin but since he commutes to Texas State, he has not been able to participate until this year. "Even as a young kid, I’ve always liked Texas State," Peluso said. "I’m very happy being here. It’s a big honor." Peluso is a Cat Camp counselor as well and said he was excited to see some of his campers and teammates at the event. “I’ve always preached to (the campers) about fun activities at Texas State, including homecoming,” Peluso said. “Now I’m a part of it, it’s like I can show them if I can do it, then they can do it.” For more information on Texas State
Tabitha Ratcliff combines lyrical dance with expert hoop skills Nov. 6 at TXST's Got Talent in Evans Auditorium. PHOTO BY REBECCA HARRELL
Homecoming Week festivities, visit the homecoming webpage on the Texas State website.
The University Star
Tuesday, November 12, 2019 | 5
OPINIONS
Jordan Drake Opinions Editor staropinion@txstate.edu
Opinions expressed in The University Star are not necessarily those of Texas State University’s administration, Board of Regents, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, or Student Publications Board.
FIRST-YEAR
University Seminar is a waste of time By Laura Nunez Opinion Columnist The required University Seminar course is unorganized and needs to focus on creating a more strict and uniform way of delivering a true common experience to all incoming students. Each year, university staff selects a new theme to dissect within the Common Experience program and chooses an accompanying book for freshman students to read the summer before their first semester. The theme for the 20192020 school year is "Truth" and the book titled, "What the Eyes Don’t See" by Mona Hanna-Attisha. The themes allow for the sharing and studying of different Texas State core values with incoming students. Along with the theme comes a required one-hour credit course, called University Seminar (US 1100). The class serves to inform first-year students of important Texas State resources, provide advice on surviving college and discuss the Common Experience theme. Yet, the course fails to proactively deliver these objectives in an organized manner. A majority of students complain about their underwhelming University Seminar experiences. Student perceptions of the class— pulled from the Texas State website—
deliver alarming responses. Some claim the class is efficiently organized and goals were made clear. Others say the exact opposite. For a program promising to deliver a unique and common experience, this disconnect is unacceptable. US 1100 is supposed to create a commonality among incoming students and provide useful information they can carry throughout the rest of their college careers. However, the class does not enforce strict enough curriculum guidelines to create a similar experience within the freshman class. The program needs to reevaluate the objectives and overall purpose of the course because currently, the dynamic is disappointing. If the class was designed to be an opportunity for faculty and staff to get a little extra cash and force students to pretend they are doing something productive, then it is succeeding. As it currently stands, the course seems to embody the very definition of unorganized. Essentially, the class is a random group of twenty-something students shoved in a classroom taught by faculty or staff from a non-related department using an unspecified set of guidelines. These elements combined create what could loosely be called curricula. US 1100 is required for all freshman students and the reaction to the course
varies significantly, depending on who is asked about it. Here lies the very issue. The students who participate in the promised common experience are robbed by a mediocre program not controlled enough to be mandated. If the class is meant to allow professors creativity in their teaching styles, then it should be marketed that way. Otherwise, US 1100 should deliver on its advertised objectives. The University Seminar needs serious reinvention by all involved parties— students, professors, and mentors—or to be removed as a required course and encouraged as optional. The course does not have to yield the exact same results for everyone, but it should not be alarmingly different. The procedures for selecting faculty to teach the course state any employed faculty member with at least a master's degree and three years of teaching experience can apply. The reality is, US 1100 is a way for selected faculty to receive an extra $1,300 a semester. Times are hard and money is a constant issue, but the solution to higher compensation should not come at the expense of students. Selected faculty teaching the course should receive a detailed list of materials to enforce. The text should be required for all students or specifically marked
as an optional reading. The varying experiences freshman students report on the end-of-year evaluations about the course create confusion and discourage participation. For a class already creating controversy on the basis of requirement, there should be nothing but uniformity within its teaching methods and requirements. US 1100 has the potential to offer essential qualities for incoming students. In fact, it could be extremely resourceful and necessary to create an easy transition to the hectic college lifestyle. However, when a majority of the student body—having been forced to take an unorganized course— complains about its ineffectiveness, there should be immediate action into altering the program. Feedback needs to be prioritized by the school administration, not swept under the rug and ignored. The University Seminar course is unstructured and randomly delivers varying content to incoming students. The integrity of the program continues to be severely questioned. Unless strict guidelines on effectively making the course cohesive for the freshman class are enforced, it should be optional and not required. -Laura Nunez is an advertising junior
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Breaking down barriers to student aid: reforming the FAFSA, expanding opportunity By U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett As midterms closeout and finals loom, paying for college and avoiding student debt can be scarier for Bobcats than even the most challenging coursework. Fortunately, some federal student financial assistance is free—but you have to ask for it first. The paperwork needed to make asking can be frustrating and intimidating. We must make it easier for high school students to enroll in college and for college students to graduate without crushing debt. Addressing the student debt crisis is central to promoting a strong economy, opening up opportunities and ensuring security for those who work hard. Cracks in our financial aid system often perpetuate inequality—inequality that stands in the way of the American Dream.
To close the widening economic gap, we have to close the college affordability gap. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 20202021 school year is available at https:// studentaid.ed.gov. If you submitted a FAFSA last year, you are eligible to use the Renewal FAFSA this year. In this form, some of the data you previously provided will be prefilled. The priority deadline to complete the FAFSA is January 15, 2020. After a decade of working for a more streamlined financial aid process, the FAFSA is still too complicated, confusing and underutilized. I am working to reform the process and remove the intimidation. Last year, high school graduates who failed to submit a FAFSA missed out on $2.6 billion in free money for college. With the ever-rising cost of
college, this financial aid is needed more than ever. I successfully authored an amendment to simplify this process and make the FAFSA available on Oct. 1, so students have more time to navigate the process. Because barriers remain, I have filed two bills in this Congress. These reform efforts are particularly important in Texas because, to graduate, next year’s seniors will be required to complete the FAFSA. My bipartisan Student Aid Simplification Act requires the Department of Education and IRS to do the heavy lifting for students by securely sharing the remaining taxpayer information required for FAFSA completion. My second bill, the Equitable Student Aid Access Act, would allow students from households with income below
$34,000—or that already receive certain means-tested benefits—to use a simplified FAFSA form and automatically qualify for the full Pell Grant. That bill makes it easier for students to make financially-informed decisions about the cost of college by ensuring colleges and students speak the same language by developing universal terms and formatting for financial aid offer letters. As I push to make aid more accessible to all, I welcome your counsel at lloyd. doggett@mail.house.gov. Likewise, I welcome your input on any of the federal issues that confront us right now at this difficult time for our nation. From matters like climate action to expanding healthcare access to holding President Trump accountable for his abuse of power, I welcome your advice and advocacy.
4 | Tuesday, November 12, 2019
The University Star
The University Star
Tuesday, November 12, 2019 | 7
SPORTS
Claire Partain Sports Editor starsports@txstate.edu
FROM FRONT FOOTBALL attempt sailed wide and brought a Homecoming victory and the third win this season for the Bobcats. Vitt finally found his groove in his third start after starting quarterback Gresch Jensen was benched due to concussion protocol, bringing in 373 passing yards and rushing 42 yards for his first-ever win as quarterback. Vitt's connection with senior receiver Hutch White was also vital to play. Hutch came in clutch with a career-high 165 yards off 10 catches as well as a standout performance alongside Mask with 62 yards on kick returns to put in 234 all-purpose yards. White's receiving yards were the highest for a Bobcat since joining the FBS in 2012, earning a nod from the conference as the Sun Belt Special Teams Player of the Week on Monday. Spavital said the strong offensive performance was due to offensive coordinator Bob Stitt's recieving emphasis. “I thought we had a really good game plan,” Spavital said, “Coach Stitt put one together that kept it together and utilized our receivers…in times where the defense wasn’t playing as stonecold as they usually do, the offense stepped up and responded and won the game for us.” Next up for the Bobcats is more of a challenge as the team plays their final home game against the University of Troy this Saturday. The 'Cats are projected at 32.8 percent odds against the Trojans, who sit at fourth in the East Division and match Texas State with a 2-3 conference record. The Bobcats will need to keep their strong offensive performance and bring back their 76th ranked defense if they are to defeat Troy. The Trojan offense is coming in hot off a 49-28 victory over Georgia Southern under quarterback Kaleb Barker, who matched Vitt with three touchdowns in last week's game. Texas State's Bryan London II sits at second in overall tackles with 89, but the Trojans host the Sun Belt's top tackler, Carlton Martial, who tops the conference at 94 tackles. The odds are against Texas State, but their breakout offensive performance, improvement from the offensive line and consistent defense has given new hope to fans and the team. The Bobcats will wrap up their final home game of the season against Troy this Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.
Senior wide receiver Lincoln Warren celebrates Texas State's homecoming win Nov. 9 at Bobcat Stadium. PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY Junior running back Robert Brown Jr. runs into the stadium Nov. 9 at Bobcat Stadium PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY
Sophomore wide receiver Trevis Graham Jr. celebrates a touchdown during Texas State's homecoming football game vs. South Alabama Nov. 9 at Bobcat Stadium. PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY Freshman wide receiver Dylan Jantz makes a gesture to his teammates Nov. 9 at the Texas State Homecoming game vs. South Alabama at Bobcat Stadium. PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY
VOLLEYBALL
PICK 'EM Editor's note: The University Star sports and editorial staff, as well as a guest picker each week, predict the outcomes for the coming week of the college football schedule. This week goes as follows: Troy @ Texas State 2:00 P.M. Nov. 16 at Bobcat Stadium, San Marcos, Tx. Memphis @ Houston 2:30 P.M. Nov. 16 at TDECU Stadium, Houston, Tx. Oklahoma @ Baylor 6:30 P.M. Nov. 16 at McLane Stadium, Waco, Tx.
JAKOB R. RODRIGUEZ (25-8)
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Troy Memphis Oklahoma
CLAIRE PARTAIN (23-10)
SPORTS EDITOR Troy Memphis Oklahoma COLTON MCWILLIAMS (21-12)
SPORTS REPORTER Texas State Memphis Baylor
ANDREW ZIMMEL (23-10)
SPORTS REPORTER Troy Memphis Oklahoma
GUEST PICKER: GEORGE STOIA, Sports Editor, OU Daily Guest picker record: Gene Bourgeois, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs (16-11) Troy Memphis Oklahoma Last Week's scores: 29-23 Baylor | 30-28 Texas State | 46-41 LSU
Volleyball clinches top conference spot with redemption win By Cade Andrews Sports Reporter After a four-game road trip, the Texas State volleyball team returned to Strahan Arena this weekend and captured two crucial wins to clinch a share of the 2019 Sun Belt Conference regular season title. After suffering their first conference loss to Arkansas State, Texas State retaliated with a 3-1 victory (22-25, 25-15, 25-19, 25-18) in front of the 7th largest crowd in program history Saturday night to ensure a first place finish in conference. Texas State improved to 21-8 overall and 13-2 in the Sun Belt Conference. The win also extended their conference home winning streak to 22 matches. Head coach Karen Chisum said that the team tweaked their passing game after the first set and had a highperforming front line that led them to the win. “That was a great match and it was exciting for the fans,” Chisum said. “We had almost every one of our hitters being productive at the key points. I didn’t think we dug very well that first game but I thought we really picked it up.” Texas State dropped the first set and suffered a 5-1 deficit in the second set, warranting a timeout and worrying fans that a repeat loss to Arkansas State may occur. The Bobcats quickly responded, however, taking a 16-4 run before winning the first set 25-15 and securing the game in the final two sets. The 'Cats managed to finish with a .279 hitting percentage and held the Red Wolves to a .170 clip behind 70 digs and 11 blocks. Four Bobcats finished with over a .300 hitting percentage. Senior outside hitter Cheyenne Huskey led the way to the win, recording her 11th double-double of the season with 15 kills (.308) and 14 digs. She also had two aces and four blocks. Freshman middle blocker Tessa Marshall hit a career-high with 12 kills (.357) and seven blocks. Following her was freshman outside hitter Caitlan Buettner who matched her career-high with 11 kills (.391) and added three blocks defensively. Sophomore setter Emily DeWalt also recorded her 11th doubleTexas State volleyball came back with a redemption win over Arkansas State to secure a share of the regular season title. PHOTO COURTESY OF TEXAS STATE ATHLETICS
double of the season as she tallied 46 assists and 10 digs to go with two kills, one ace and one block. The weekend's performances earned DeWalt the Sun Belt Setter of the Week award, her third weekly award this season. Marshall, who has stepped up as a key hitter after an injury from Jillian Slaughter, said that her teammates made her feel comfortable as she took a starting role on the team. “The whole team from day one when I started playing, or even when I was on the bench, told me they believed in me,” Marshall said. “It was easy to fit in with this group.” A day earlier, Texas State swept Arkansas-Little Rock 25-16, 25-17, 25-18 for its 12th sweep of the season. The win marked the 26th season under Chisum that the Bobcats have reached the 20-win mark. The Bobcats shut down the Trojans as they held them to a .078 hitting percentage. Texas State had a .286 hitting percentage behind 45 kills and three aces. With the win, Texas State improved to 11-5 all-time vs. Little Rock and have won the last seven matches. Huskey led the team with 14 kills and two aces. She also had six digs, which matched a team-high with three other teammates. Sophomore Janell Fitzgerald recorded eight kills on 17 swings (.353). DeWalt had 35 assists to go along with six digs and four kills. Junior libero Brooke Johnson and Buettner each had six digs to match the team-high. After multiple road trips, the sweep was a good way to regroup and find their groove again, associate head coach Sean Huiet said. “I thought everybody stepped up tonight,” Huiet said. “We know we’re going to need everyone down the road, so it was great to see some players get into a rhythm tonight.” Texas State returns to Strahan Arena for senior day on Friday and their final regular season match to take on UT Arlington at 6:30 p.m. The Sun Belt Conference Championships will be held at Strahan Arena on Nov. 21-24. Stay updated on everything Texas State volleyball by following the team on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The University Star
8 | Tuesday, November 12, 2019
SPORTS
Claire Partain Sports Editor starsports@txstate.edu
MEN'S BASKETBALL
WOMENS'S BASKETBALL
Air Force soars above Bobcat basketball in road opener
Women's basketball loses close contest to Oral Roberts
By Andrew Zimmel Sports Reporter After trailing by as many as 14 points in the second half, the Texas State Bobcats lost to The Air Force Academy 78-71 Saturday. The loss marks the second time the ‘Cats have lost to the Falcons in three years and drops them to 1-6 in road openers under head coach Danny Kaspar. The Bobcats led only once in the first half and had to fight their way back to end the half with a five-point 35-30 deficit after a buzzer-beating coast-to-coast layup by sophomore Mason Harrell. Harrell proved to be the holdout for the Bobcats, scoring 11 points in the first half and shooting 2-4 from behind the arc. Despite Harrell’s accuracy, the Bobcats as a whole struggled shooting from deep, going 3-18 with only Harrell and senior guard Nijal Pearson connecting from behind the arc. Pearson landed his sole three-pointer in the second half, marking his 178th career three and putting him as the alltime leader for the program. The start of the second half was all Air Force, with the Falcons going on a 11-2 run and pushing the game’s biggest lead, a 46-32 advantage. The ‘Cats were able to cut the lead to single digits, but it proved too little too late as the Falcons hit free throws late in the game to seal the win. Kaspar said he appreciated the team's grit but found weaknesses in the team's defense and shooting accuracy. “The guys fought to the end tonight and I can appreciate that," Kaspar said. "At the same time, our defense was subpar, and we shot poorly from the 3-point and free throw lines. We cannot give up 43 points in a half and shoot like we did tonight and expect to win." The team's shooting accuracy was lower than Kaspar's expectations, but redshirt junior Marlin Davis racked up some points for the Bobcats. After missing all of last season, Davis gave Texas State 11 points and four assists off the bench. The ‘Cats also outscored Air Force 46-18 in the paint and won out 10-8 on offensive rebounds.
Texas State guard Deshawn Davidson, (0), prepares to pass the basketball Nov. 1 at Strahan Arena. PHOTO BY KATELYN LESTER
The Bobcats will return to Strahan on Tuesday to match up against Prairie View A&M. The Panthers are coming off a 73-69 loss to UCF and last lost to the Bobcats in 2016. PVAM, however, could prove a threat as the defending Southwestern Athletic Conference champions and 2018 NCAA tournament qualifiers. Prairie View also holds a threat in Devonte Patterson, the conference’s Preseason Player of the Year, who wasn’t on the court for the Panthers’ loss to UCF. Bobcat fans should be on the lookout for Patterson, a player who averaged 13.5 points and 5 rebounds last season, as well as Chancellor Ellis, who is leading the team in points per game and free throw percentage. For the Bobcats, the focus has been scoring down low so far this season with sophomore Alonzo Sule and senior Eric Terry. Harrell is working on becoming a reliable scorer and is picking up the slack from Person’s hot and cold shooting. Both teams are .500 on the season as they head into Tuesday’s home game at 7 p.m. The ‘Cats will face Prairieview before heading to fellow NCAA qualifier Baylor at 8 p.m. on Friday in Waco.
By Andrew Zimmel Sports Reporter Coming home after a tough road loss to Oral Roberts, Texas State women's basketball looks to face off agains The University of Texas of the Permian Basin on Saturday at Strahan Arena. After outscoring Oral Roberts in the first quarter but falling behind for the rest of the game, Texas State lost to Oral Roberts in a tight 63-57 contest at Tulsa on Friday. Despite the loss, sophomore forward Da’Nasia Hood had a breakout game, scoring 17 points and grabbing eight rebounds for her second straight game with double-digit stats. Sophomore guard Kennedy Taylor led the team with seven assists but struggled from the floor, and both Taylor and the Holle twins shot 1-for -12. Texas State's defense brought the 'Cats to Oral Roberts' level, and the teams switched leads eleven times and came within two points in the final quarter before ORU took it away. Coming home to face the Permian Basin Falcons on Saturday might be just what the team needs to turn it around. The Falcons will be coming into Strahan winless, but Texas State shouldn't take the team lightly. Players and fans should watch out for Holly Hemmeline, who averages 22 points per game through the two season openers and has the most field goal attempts for the Falcons. Head coach Zenerae Antoine is ready for a home matchup and a chance to regroup after a tough loss, Antoine said. “It is good to be home for our next contest.” Coach Zenarae Antoine said. “The game this past weekend at Oral Roberts was highly competitive and we have an opportunity this week to continue to work on ourselves before we play our next game,” As the sole returning starter and de facto leader of the ‘Cats, Brooke Holle had a rusty start of the season, averaging 5.5 points and shooting 27% from the floor. For the Bobcats to contend going forward, Holle will need to find her groove or share the lead with other standouts. For example, the Bobcats' win over Texas Lutheran was accomplished on the shoulders of sophomore center Jaeda Reed, something that could help the team later on. Reed took 14 shots against TLU but only made half the amount over Oral Roberts, while sophomore Kennedy Taylor has also done well with running the offense but has suffered from rusty shooting to start the season. Texas State faces off against Texas-Permian Basin at 11 a.m. on Saturday back at Strahan Arena.
TEXAS STATE ATHLETICS
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